Don't allow minor bumps on the road to cost you dear

dailyrecord.co.uk:

SCOTS motorists involved in minor accidents – common during the slippery winter weather – are being encouraged to check their car properly afterwards.Car leasing experts at Vehicle Contracts say four key examinations after such an incident can help to protect you, your motor and your insurance policy – and save you financially.Firstly, check your lights are working all round to avoid legal penalties – have another person behind the vehicle to check the brake lights are working or reverse up to a garage to see the lights reflecting.A bump could also cause an oil or radiator leak that can cost upwards of £1250 to fix.

If damage causes a knock-on effect to the engine, you could be shelling out thousands to get your car back up and running.Also, if you miss a leak and notice it after an initial insurance claim, or decide not to claim, it can be difficult to get the money back for a repair.

Make sure you contact your insurer after an accident and identify any potential issues, even if you’re not planning on claiming.You should also get your car’s hi-tech safety systems reset – if it has them.

Advanced driver assistance features include lane keeping assistance, adaptive cruise control, ABS, parking sensors and a long list of other components.If you don’t have these recalibrated after an accident, you could unknowingly invalidate your insurance.